MY FAMILY AND I lived in a
suburb of Chicago when I was
a child. The weather was often
overcast and gloomy. When it
was sunny, my parents applied
sunscreen. Unfortunately, when I
was 10 years old I fell off a jungle gym and fractured
my right arm. It wasn’t a big fall, I shouldn’t really
have broken any bones, but looking back I suspect my
vitamin D levels weren’t optimal.

Vitamin D is often referred to as the “sunshine
vitamin.” It is produced in your skin in response to
sunlight and is a vital organic compound supporting
the absorption of calcium and protecting bone
strength, supporting immune function, and regulating
mood. Deficiencies in vitamin D can lead to weakened
bones, autoimmunity and conditions like osteoporosis,
and mental illness such as Seasonal Affective Disorder,
more commonly known as SAD.

VITAMIN D3 IS GOOD FOR YOUR BRAIN
D3 helps regulate the conversion of tryptophan to
serotonin, which is the essential neurotransmitter
affecting a variety of cognitive functions including
mood, decision-making, social behavior, impulsive
behavior, and social decision-making. Many
psychological disorders associated with brain chemistry
and function, such as autism spectrum disorder
(ASD), ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder,
and depression, show low brain serotonin. Seasonal
Affective Disorder (SAD) is positively impacted by
combining light therapy with vitamin D3.

There are two forms of vitamin D; ergocalciferol
(vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). Of
the two, vitamin D3 is the preferred form for human
consumption.

So how can you help your body get the right amount
of protective vitamin D?
While sun exposure is helpful, it is often not enough.

It is worth considering a daily dose of a good quality
vitamin D3 supplement. Obviously, dosing Vitamin
D3 depends on your weight and current vitamin D3
status. The first order of business would be to get
tested and look at the data. Generally, children need
less than adults.

mineral cofactors that help the body to utilize D3
properly. In addition to the D3 supplementation I
also suggest adding magnesium, boron and zinc.
Here’s why:

Magnesium is necessary for your body to make
energy from the food you eat. It helps to control
In my experience, most doctors order 25 blood pressure, blood sugar levels and it keeps your
dihydroxyvitamin D test but this is the inactive form heart beating regularly.
and may not give you all the information. I suggest
also getting your Calcitriol 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D The Vitamin D Council believes that the daily
blood levels checked and if required ask your doctor amounts of magnesium recommended by the Food
or holistic health care provider to recommend an and Nutrition Board aren’t enough to keep your body
appropriate dose of vitamin D3 for supplementation. healthy and supplementation is recommended. Some
A healthy vitamin D blood level is about 45-75 ng/
ml, depending on an individual’s unique biological
needs. The Vitamin D Counsel recommends an
average of 50 ng/ml. As part of my practice, I’ve
learned to individualize things, some people do
better with vitamin D levels that are 75 ng/ml, and
others lower. People with known autoimmunity,
autoimmune disease, immune dysfunction or those
living in northern states should have their levels
tested regularly.
In order to work optimally, it is worth supporting
vitamin D3 supplementation with other important

research studies show that your body needs between
500 and 700 mg a day.
Zinc is a mineral mainly found in the muscles and
bones. It helps the body perform many vital functions
such as fighting infection, healing wounds, making
new cells, facilitating the use of carbohydrates, fat
and proteins in food, promoting strong growth and
development especially in babies and young children
through adolescence and helping with taste and smell.

CONTINUED PAGE 8...

winter 2018

7

or olive oil. Look for this in your supplement. Avoid
products that contain soy, cotton seed, rapeseed, and
Zinc isn’t stored long-term in the body so it’s vital to safflower oil.
eat foods that contain it or to supplement. Zinc helps
vitamin D work in cells as well as strengthening bones. Some doctors believe an adult dose of 2000 IU/
Oysters have a high concentration of zinc.
day is adequate, others promote 5000 IU/day, some
individuals may temporarily need as much as 10,000
(*If you are taking any medications that are intended for a short period of time to help boost their levels.
to suppress your immune system consult your doctor
before taking zinc.)
Kristing Grayce McGary LAc., MAc., CFMP®, CSTcert,
CLP is a highly sought-after health and lifestyle alchemist.
Boron is a trace mineral needed in small amounts by She is renowned for reversing annoying and debilitating
the body. Fruits, leafy vegetables and nuts contain health conditions and helping people to live with clarity
boron. It works with vitamin D to help bones use the and vitality. Kristin Grayce is also a speaker and author of
minerals they need such as calcium.
Ketogenic Cure; Heal Your Gut, Heal Your Life.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7...

To reiterate, vitamin D3 plays a central role in a
healthy mind and body which is why a balanced diet
and supplementation is vital.
SUPPLEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
There are a few on the market that have a very healthy
carrier oil called Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT)

I HAVE ALWAYS been a spiritual
individual. Early in my adult life I was
educated as a Feng Shui consultant,
which made sense since I am also an event
producer. This knowledge allowed me
to cultivate conscious environments for my
clients. Over the years, I studied numerous modalities,
adding more wisdom to my energy tool kit. About 17
years ago, I studied the philosophies and teachings
of Jonathan and Andi Goldman. When I was hired
for a Feng Shui consultation, I would “invite” my
sacred sound bowls to come along. It became very
apparent something magical was happening as soon
as I played the crystal singing bowls at my client’s
homes. It was during this time, my passion for
creating Spiritual Blessing Ceremonies accelerated.
My spiritual journey has provided me with the insight
that sacred sound is my vehicle to connect spirit and
oneness with the universe and divinity. Today, my
work is focused on transformational ceremonies that
awaken your higher consciousness and expand inner
light. This allowed the birth of Gateways to Brilliance.
WHAT ARE GATEWAYS?
Gateways allow us to move from one state of
consciousness to the next. They allow us to make
a choice: Are we moving toward, away or into
something? I work with light and invite sacred sound
to be the vibrational guidance system that transports
us through gateways to higher consciousness.
10 www.esswellness.com

WHAT DO I MEAN BY BRILLIANCE?
Brilliance is about expressing your most light-filled
self and sharing that with the world. It’s a courageous
act. When we accept our brilliance, we awaken our
sacred purpose and divine potential. We become
radiators of love, grace, peace, joy and beauty. As a
master of energy, light and sound healing, I have spent
20 years creating holy spaces, both inside and out. My
transformational ceremonies help you ignite the light
within, awaken your inner and outer consciousness,
and connect with your divine potential. As a result,
clients become more radiant and confident, attract
joy, happiness and love. They experience profound
self-discovery, stress reduction, improved mindfulness,
reduction in energy blocks, expanded spiritual
enlightenment and blessings.
A MESSAGE FROM CAROLYN
How do you know you are ready to experience a
spiritual blessing?
“All you have to do is bring your willingness and
an open heart. Sacred Sound and Light will handle the
rest.”
A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE WITH GATEWAYS
Written by Bethany
If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful and spiritual
experience that renews your energy and opens your
heart to the magical possibilities of life, try Carolyn
Vinup’s Sacred Sound Ceremony, The Blessing.

Carolyn is the ultimate professional with a lovely
ability to make you feel comfortable and special from
the moment you enter the door of her delightful
home. For those new to sound ceremonies, Carolyn
walks you step-by-step through the blessing ceremony,
describing the actions, sounds and intentions of each
part of the process – all over a cup of warm tea. She
shines while she talks about The Blessing, sharing
stories that are touching and powerful, and it shows
just how deeply she cares about you and the sound
healing experience. By the time you lay down on
her cozy massage table, complete with blankets and
pillows, your blood pressure has dropped, and you
feel innately relaxed.
Whether you know Carolyn personally, have been
referred to her by a friend, have experience with sound
healing, or reached out to her for a specific purpose,
Carolyn will take the time to understand what your
desired outcome is and shape the experience based on
your individual needs. Her customization shows her
true passion, to gift you with a sacred experience that
helps you open your heart, mind and body. Her one
request is that you be open to receiving the gift of this
sacred experience.
The ceremony itself is a beautiful cascade of
tones from the opening chants to the ringing of the
crystal singing bowls. You feel the love, energy and
light surrounding your body and for me, a feeling
of complete relaxation and peace. I left The Blessing
feeling calm, happy and glad that I took the time to do

something for myself. Many of us, especially women,
don’t often take the time for self-love and care, and
this time to yourself, different than a massage or
workout, allows you to quiet your mind and open up
your energy channels in a way that is heart-touching.
SPIRITUAL BLESSING CEREMONIES
AVAILABLE
1. Carolyn’s Signature Ceremony is The Blessing
All new clients start with “The Blessing” ceremony.
For subsequent appointments other Spiritual Ceremonies
or Sound Healing experiences can be chosen.
WHAT IS A BLESSING?
It is a sacred act, a sacred experience, a holy
experience. Where you feel deeply connected to your
Oneness with Divinity
2. Activation for Manifesting Divinity, Dreams
and Desires Ceremony
Expand awareness, honor your divine potential,
and anchor your sacred and holy purpose. During the
sacred conversation, the focus will be on Releasing
the Inner Critic, Allowing Forgiveness, Establishing
an Executive Order and Anchoring Affirmative
Statements. During the ceremony, the activation for
manifesting will focus on the following gateways:
higher consciousness, opening the channels for
insight, wisdom, guidance and vision.
CONTINUED PAGE 12...
winter 2018

11

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11...

INSPIRATIONAL STORIES

3. Calling in the Light of Forgiveness Ceremony
All spiritual practices include forgiveness.
Not forgiving can hold you back from being fully
engaged in life. Forgiveness is a process that may be
revisited again at different times in your life, as your
own awareness of ‘self ’ deepens. Engage in Personal
Reflection, Meditation and Identify a song, poem or
prayer that will help set you free.
4. Gateways to Brilliance Ceremony
Awaken the Gateways to Higher Consciousness
through light, sound, love and oneness that swirls
gently all around you. A clearing and blessing for each
chakra.

“The Blessing” with Carolyn Vinup was deeply relaxing.
As the sound and vibration of her voice, chant, and crystal
singing bowls flowed through my body, I felt a sense of
releasing and lightness. As the session progressed, I could
see light coming in waves tuning and harmonizing me on
every level. Several times I had images of geometric shapes
and felt a spiraling, tingling sensation. At one point, she
guided each hand inside one of her crystal bowls and
the palms of my hands felt a warm flow in and out. I
thought about the blessings coming in and going out in
many areas of my life. After our session, I felt cleared and
recalibrated. It was such a gift! I highly recommend this
spiritual blessing session with Carolyn. ­­
­—Michele Rae, Center Within

Hello World! Imagine what would happen if you could
5. I AM Light Ceremony
marry the tranquility of a day at the spa with the high Acceleration of your inner light through a reunion, impact personal coaching session. Magic. That’s what you
reconnection and restoration ceremony. It is deeply get when you experience Carolyn Vinup’s Activation for
relaxing, nourishing, aligning and loving. An Ancient Manifesting Divinity, Dreams and Desires Ceremony.
Chant will infuse Spiritual Light into your life.
Seriously. Female business owners need to come and see

12 www.esswellness.com

you. This is break-through work. This is stepping-intobrilliance work. This is time-to-play-big work. I keep
singing “THIS GIRL IS ON FIRE.” I have been ignited.­
—Catherine Breet-Arbez, Inc., Change Your Stripes
Do What You Love For A Living
Carolyn, I don’t think I’ve ever gone so deep into healing
mode. Afterward, I felt so balanced and energized but
relaxed at the same time. It was profound, not only healing
but revealing. My blessings FELT received through my
left hand and I could see the joy and gratitude in my
heart. The great ‘I am’ in my thankful heart was fully
revealed to me through color and light. WOW, awesome.
This was the most sacred ceremony I have ever experienced
because I was the object and focus of the blessing. I could
feel the light pour in through every cell of by body as the
angelic sounds surrounded me.
­—Ann Cathcart, Holistic Nurse

I was excited the entire drive to Carolyn’s Blessing Ceremony.
I knew that something wonderful, marvelous, something
new was about to happen. Carolyn’s energy and enthusiasm
was contagious, she wanted only what the Creator wants for
me—and she had offered herself up to be a vehicle for that
process. The actual ceremony was one of beauty and grace,
where sound become love and love, sound. There was a
holiness in the Sacred Sound Studio and a sacredness to the
ritual. I could feel myself relaxing into the arms of the Most
Holy and being washed gently of my fears and resistance—
all that stood in the way of accepting the Creator’s blessings.
As Carolyn pointed out, we have all left blessings on the
table. Why not ask for them? Why not receive them? Since
that session I have felt different, in that I feel more like
myself. I sense Grace all the way around. And I’m ready to
rock and roll on the joyous ride of life. Whoever you are,
whatever your background, age, or religious background,
there are blessings for you to gather, like flowers to your heart.
—Cyndi Dale, Life System Services, Author of 25
Books

Consciously Align to Your Soul’s Design:
A New Paradigm
By Barbara Brodsho, M.A.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that
is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone.
As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give
other people permission to do the same.
—Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love: Reflections
on the Principles of “A Course in Miracles”

W

WE’RE LIVING IN an
exciting time in human history.
We’re in a better position now
than ever before to “make
manifest the glory of God that
is within us.”
So what’s different about this time in history?
For many generations, people were just trying to
survive by making choices that met their needs for
safety and security. And until recently, we’ve not had
access to information about our Soul’s unique divine
nature. Therefore, we’ve not had the opportunity to
make conscious choices that are in alignment with our
Soul’s design. As a result, we’ve become disconnected
from who we were created to be.
As our planet shifted towards a higher level of
consciousness when we entered the “information age,”
we gained more access to a spiritual resource that can
assist us in understanding our soul’s purpose, our gifts,
and our life lessons.

14 www.esswellness.com

This spiritual resource is called the Akashic Records
and its purpose is to educate and guide us to become
who we were created to be. The Akashic Records are a
centralized energetic database that contains the story
of our soul’s journey from the moment of inception.
Each soul has its own Akashic Record and it serves
three main purposes
First, it houses our Divine Soul Blueprint which
informs us of our divine gifts and how we’re designed
to create and manifest our soul’s desires. It also stores
the life lessons our soul has chosen to experience, as
well as the spirit guide team that is supporting us for
this lifetime.
Second, it’s an energetic recording of our every
intention and interaction with the rest of creation.
As we’ve made choices against our divine nature,
we’ve diminished our ability to access our gifts. Using
the Akashic Records, we can find out what these
circumstances were, the choices we made, and the
consequences that resulted from them.
We can then clear the negative influences associated
with these choices. This increase in consciousness
along with the soul-level healing, empowers us to
make positive choices going forward, resulting in
greater access to our divine gifts.
Third, the Akashic Records store every potential
and possibility for our future based on our free will and
the choices we make. We can use them to determine if

the actions we intend to take will bring us into greater
vibrational alignment with the outcomes we desire.
Your Akashic Record can enlighten you to gain a
profound knowing of who you are and why you are
here. When we work together to tap into the wisdom
of your soul, you will:
• Experience more creative energy as you
confidently and courageously express your soul’s
innate gifts.
• Manifest your vision of a passionate, purposefilled life by implementing effective intentions and
actions steps based on your soul’s Manifestation
Blueprint.
• Learn the root cause of what’s preventing
you from expressing your gifts or experiencing the
positive aspect of your life lessons.
• Clear the negative energy related to these issues
which will empower you to make positive choices.
• Gain clarity, insight and a new perspective about
your life’s challenges—that they are not coincidental
or random—they are taking place to help you heal
unfinished business or to develop divine qualities.
• Receive support and guidance from your
personal spirit guide team to help you successfully
manifest your vision and purpose.
When you consciously align your choices with
your soul’s design, you will tap into the infinite
abundance of creative vital force energy in the

Universe and as a result, experience greater joy,
abundance and fulfillment in your life.
I invite you to join me in ushering in this new
paradigm. Step into your personal power to “make
manifest the glory of God that is within you” by
discovering the wisdom contained in your soul’s
Akashic Record. Use it as a spiritual resource to help
you align your choices with your soul’s design and
then let your magnificent light shine.
We were born for such a time as this.
Barbara Brodsho empowers spiritual seekers, creative
people and leaders to express their soul’s innate gifts
and make meaning of their life’s challenges from their
soul’s perspective. As a result, they experience greater
joy, abundance and fulfillment while creating and
living passionate, purpose-filled lives. She is a 2018
contributing writer for the international publication,
Sibyl Magazine—For the Spirt and Soul of Woman.
Click here to visit: www.BarbaraBrodsho.com